Canucks Close to Trading for Canadiens' Gallagher

The Vancouver Canucks are on the verge of acquiring veteran forward Brendan Gallagher from the Montreal Canadiens. Multiple insiders report that the deal is moving quickly, with Gallagher’s agent confirming that Vancouver has expressed serious interest. The trade would reunite Gallagher with head coach Bruce Boudreau, who previously coached him in Washington.

Gallagher, 32, is in the final season of a $6.5 million cap hit. His contract makes the trade complex, but sources suggest a deal is possible if the Canadiens retain some of his salary. Vancouver, which has been aggressively building for the future, sees Gallagher as a key piece to strengthen its culture and depth.

According to Gallagher’s agent Gerry Johannson, Vancouver has the trade “on their desk” and is actively considering it. “We’re pretty close to what the teams are doing, but you really don’t know what’s going on inside their operations,” Johannson said. He added, “Until it’s done, it’s never done.”

Gallagher has made it clear he wants out of Montreal. After being a healthy scratch for much of the Canadiens’ playoff series with the Carolina Hurricanes, he stated publicly that his time in the city is over. The Canadiens, who are also in a transitional phase, appear ready to move on.

The Canadiens could benefit from the flexibility this trade would provide. With the salary cap uncertain for 2026-27, Montreal may need to reduce their payroll. Retaining part of Gallagher’s $6.5 million salary could help them avoid a cap overhang while still receiving assets in return.

For Vancouver, Gallagher offers leadership, two-way play, and a physical presence that fits their rebuild. Last season, he recorded 38 goals and 67 points in 82 games, while averaging 19:30 of ice time. He also has 16 playoff goals in his career, including a key 2021 playoff run with the Capitals.

The Canadiens have not yet announced any official trade activity, but with the 2026 NHL Draft and free agency approaching, time is running out. If the deal is struck, it would be a major addition for the Canucks and a significant shift for the Canadiens’ forward group.

The next step will likely come within the next 72 hours, as both teams finalize details. Vancouver has shown a willingness to move quickly in recent weeks, and Montreal is reportedly open to a deal.